Stewart Downing admits West Ham United are enjoying silencing their doubters.

The Hammers are fourth in the Barclays Premier League ahead of Saturday's trip to Sunderland.

"It's good, teams have spent a lot of money and people expected them to be in the top four because of what they've spent but it doesn't always work that way," Downing said.

"We have bought very well, the players coming in have settled well. Sometimes you see players coming to the Premier League struggle to adapt. It's a big plus for us."